Jan 16, 2026 - Things to Do

MLK Day celebrations and freebies in Indianapolis

Justin L. Mack

Photo illustration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in a collage of torn paper and abstract shapes containing his "I Have a Dream" speech. — Photo Illustration: Lindsey Bailey/Axios. Photos: Stephen Chernin/Stringer, Mario Tama, Dia Dipasupil, Bettmann, Don Uhrbrock/Getty Images

Martin Luther King Jr. Day is Monday. As we reflect on the life and legacy of the civil rights icon over the long weekend, the Indianapolis-area is full of free ways to celebrate his impact.

🙌 Honor MLK's impact during the 44th Annual MLK Day of Celebration at the Madam Walker Legacy Center. Civil rights advocate Bakari Sellers will serve as the distinguished speaker for the event that begins at 7pm Monday.

⏰ Go back in time with a free day at the Indiana Historical Society as the organization puts on special MLK-themed programming from 11am-3pm Monday. All other IHS exhibits will be open from 10am-5pm.

Attractions include the chance to design a canvas bag for Concord Neighborhood Center and paint your own MLK silhouette. Get your free tickets here.

🐯 Embrace your wild side with a free day at the Indianapolis Zoo, which is normally closed on Mondays but will be open from 9am-4pm on MLK Day.

🖼️ Experience a day of artistic expression during the Newfields MLK Jr. Day celebration from 10am-5pm Monday.

Make a memory pin for a community work of art, attend storytime sessions featuring Black authors, take part in a guided wellness activity and more. Get your free tickets here.

🚂 Get hands on at Eiteljorg Museum with free activities that run from 10am-5pm Monday.

A choir performance starts at 11am; an interactive dance starts at 12:30pm; a drum circle starts at 1pm and a film screening of the "In Remembrance of Martin" documentary starts at 2:30pm.

Monday will also be the last day to see Jingle Rails, the museum's model train wonderland.

🏀 Ball out 'til you fall out at the NCAA Hall of Champions. Free admission on Monday will grant you access to a 1930s retro gym, a mascot exhibit and sports simulators.

🐺 Howl at a free movie at IMAX Theater. On Monday, the theater will show "Lost Wolves of Yellowstone" at 11:15am, 12:45pm, 2:15pm and 3:45pm.

Parking will also be free at IMAX on Monday. Get tickets in advance here.

🏎️ Fulfill your need for speed with a day at the revamped Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum.

Gallery talks that take visitors through the exhibits begin at 11am. Get free tickets here.

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MLK Day celebrations and freebies in Indianapolis

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